Bipolar disorder is a serious mental disorder that affects millions of people of all ages and backgrounds. Sadly, the disorder is extremely misunderstood and there can be a lot of stigma attached to people who suffer from bipolar disorder. Unless people know someone who suffers from this condition, or they are educated about it, it is easy to misinterpret a sufferer’s behaviour patterns as unreasonable, selfish and highly strung. This is a pity because those suffering with genuine bipolar disorder cannot help the sever mood swings they endure, or the extreme behaviours that these extreme swings can cause.
A great deal is known about this condition and currently treatments are extremely effective. However, it is also fair to say that new treatments and studies are being conducted all the time and that advances in Psychiatric care and medicine are helping patients all the time. There is however, still a great deal to learn about the human psyche.
For individuals who have bipolar disorder, and their close family, it is important that the right treatments, counselling, medications and wider family support are available. If a patient goes through a severe episode they cause harm to themselves and to others so it is important that everyone concerned understands the serious nature of this condition and receives the appropriate help and support that they need.
It is not all bad news! Bipolar sufferers, with the correct medication, counselling, therapies and support, can learn to manage their symptoms and live normal fruitful lives with jobs, careers, families and leisure activities. In fact, there are millions of bipolar patients in the world and most people would not even be able to tell they are being treated for the disorder. That is how effective the treatments are.
If you think you are suffering from the symptoms of bipolar disorder or a member of your immediate family is, the first step is to seek the advice of a doctor. Your family GP is usually the first step. They will refer the patient to a suitably qualified psychiatrist who is able to correctly diagnose and then treat the disorder.
Treatments usually include intensive therapy sessions, counselling, and medication and in some cases, hospitalisation may be required until the patient stabilises, but this is only in extremely serious cases where the patient is safer in the care of professionals in a hospital. For the majority of people, they can manage their symptoms with regular counselling, therapies like exercise, artistic endeavours and other specialist therapies, and of course, the correct medication.
For millions of people around the world, they have found relief form their symptoms and the help and support they needed. They are able to live happy lives and to enjoy jobs, relationships and families. There is no reason to presume that as a bipolar sufferer that you will not be able to function. While it can feel extremely dark and that there is no way out, the help is there for the people who need it.
